Antimicrobial Resistance Pattern among Organisms Isolated from Tertiary Care Hospital Chennai

BackgroundThe findings will help guide the development of targeted antimicrobial stewardship programs and enhance public health strategies to address resistance. AimThis study aimed to identify common antimicrobial-resistant organisms and their resistance profiles in clinical specimens from a tertiary care hospital. Settings and DesignA cross-sectional study was conducted at ACS Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, from November 2023 to May 2024, involving 346 participants. Materials and MethodsClinical specimens, including urine, blood, sputum, and wound swabs, were collected from patients in various hospital wards. Demographic details of participants were documented, and patients who had received antimicrobial therapy within the previous month or provided tissue samples were excluded. The specimens were analyzed in the central laboratory for microbial growth and antimicrobial resistance profiles. Isolated were tested by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method and breakpoint minimum inhibitory concentration for susceptibility against standard antibiotics. ResultsAmong the 346 specimens analyzed, 264 (76.3%) showed microbial growth. The most commonly isolated organisms were Escherichia coli (28.8%), Klebsiella species (26.9%). High level resistance was observed, especially to Polymyxin B (98.7%), Cefoperazone/Sulbactam (97.4%), and Cefotaxime (92.1%). Conclusionantimicrobial resistance requires coordinated action across healthcare, policy, and public sectors. By enforcing stricter regulations, enhancing surveillance, and investing in new treatments, we can slow resistance and preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics, safeguarding public health for future generations.